2023 Men's Soccer Season Preview
Last Season's Recap
When asked to describe last year's season, Head Coach and 2022 CCAA Coach of the Year Stuart Mackie said, "Last year was terrific; it was everything we wanted and more." Through exceptional group effort, The Condors Men's Soccer team achieved an impressive 9-1 regular season record, a historic high for Conestoga. While they faced a heart-wrenching loss in the quarterfinals via a penalty shootout, the resiliency demonstrated throughout the season laid the groundwork for greater triumphs. Their exceptional 3rd-place finish in the indoor season was a huge achievement for this team and shows what they are capable of. The program has demonstrated continued growth and development, and as they move forward into the new season, they feel like there is more to do and more to prove.
Key Returning Players
The team is thrilled to welcome back a core of players who are poised to reclaim their roles as leaders both on and off the pitch. The team has a strong and positive culture, which the returning players will ensure is maintained. Among the returnees stands Malachi Ramsay (2022 All-Star) and Saab Kohar, dynamic co-captains; Alex Amaral (2022 All-Star), a veteran enriched with high-level experience; Josip Stojanovic (2022 OCAA Rookie of the Year and All-Star), a mature guiding presence; and Carson Davison (2022 All-Star), a defensive rock. All the returning players are excited and ready to take on the upcoming season.
Coaches' Perspective
This season, the Condors Men's Soccer coaching staff holds a strong sense of confidence in the capabilities of this team. Their sights are firmly set on advancing from the success of last year and striving to perpetuate the positive team culture that underpins their identity.
The goal is not only to preserve the achievements of last year but to amplify them. This is a team that wants to be a competitive force in every game and is looking to compete for a medal. In the team's journey to a medal, they are looking to sustain their remarkable season record and uphold or elevate their national ranking; an impressive 10th-place finish in Canada last year speaks to the potential they hold. Yet, above all, the team's collective ambition resonates with the desire to cultivate growth and development throughout the program. The vision is clear – the entire team contributes to a dynamic legacy that echoes beyond the field.
Keys to Success
The team has embraced core principles that will support them in achieving all they are capable of. According to co-captain and starting centre-back Malachi Ramsay, a crucial key to team success lies in their commitment to competitive play, both during practices and in every game. Additionally, he underscores the value of nurturing a sense of unity among teammates while upholding the standards of play that define the team. Malachi also highlights the importance of putting in the work off the field to stay fit and healthy.
The Condors Men's Soccer team has already proven this will be an exciting season with their recent 6-0 win against Centennial Collage in a friendly this week. Don't miss the action; the season's home opener is on Saturday, September 13th, at RBJ Schlegel Field, Kitchener. The Condors will take on the Lambton Lions at 8 p.m. To see the full schedule click here. Stay connected and be part of the excitement by following them on Instagram @CondorsMsoccer.